Last week, Miami's entrepreneurial scene saw a significant rise in women-led businesses as the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT) announced the winners of Pitch Fest 2025: Dream. Pitch. Prosper! The event, coinciding with Women's History Month, aimed to support local small businesses. Dr. Amber Williams' Upright Spine Center took first place with a $15,000 prize, while Arias Austin's SluttyIcee’s Inc. and Nicole Bronson's Anointed Florist and Gift Shop LLC secured second and third places, winning $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.
According to the Miami-Dade County website, the MDEAT initiative was particularly notable as all major prizes were awarded to Black women entrepreneurs, highlighting the growing leadership of women in Miami-Dade's business community. The semi-finalists of the competition were also predominantly women, further showcasing the platform’s role in amplifying their business skills.
Pitch Fest 2025 was not just a competition but a way to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship while emphasizing the impact small businesses have on the community. It provided participants with the opportunity to improve their pitch strategies and connect with industry leaders.
This year’s event featured a new format that combined live pitches with networking and learning opportunities. The judging panel, consisting of Eric Knowles, Connie Kinnard, and Hilmon Sorey, selected the winners after a series of five to seven-minute presentations followed by a Q&A session.
After the success of Pitch Fest 2025, MDEAT is already planning for next year’s event and encourages local business owners to stay updated on upcoming Q2 Business Grant opportunities through their Instagram @MDEATInfo. MDEAT continues to support economic growth and community empowerment by providing entrepreneurs with capital, education, and resources, as demonstrated by Pitch Fest 2025.
